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Summary
Cryopreservation using dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) enables long-term storage of functional human platelets. These frozen platelets demonstrate effective hemostasis in patients with thrombocytopenia.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Hematology
- Cryobiology
Background:
- Platelet storage for transfusion is limited by short shelf-life.
- Current methods do not allow for indefinite storage of viable platelets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a method for prolonged, indefinite storage of viable and functional human platelets.
- To assess the hemostatic effectiveness and survival of cryopreserved platelets.
Main Methods:
- Platelet concentrates were suspended in plasma with gradual addition of dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) to 5%.
- A slow cooling rate (1°C/min) and rapid thawing (1 min) were employed using polyolefin bags.
- Platelets were washed and resuspended in a solution of plasma in Hanks' balanced salt solution.
Main Results:
- Cryopreservation with DMSO allows for prolonged, potentially indefinite, storage of viable human platelets.
- Reinfused platelets showed nearly normal survival rates.
- Effective hemostatic function was observed in thrombocytopenic patients.
Conclusions:
- Dimethylsulfoxide-based cryopreservation is a viable method for long-term human platelet storage.
- This technique supports sustained hemostatic effectiveness in clinical settings.
- Adaptation for large-scale usage has been achieved.